Workers in Connecticut can get hurt on the job with little warning. All of a sudden, they can’t earn their usual wages because of an injury and may require expensive medical treatment to recover. Thankfully, most people who are employees, not independent contractors, can count on workers’ compensation coverage to help them with certain injury-related expenses.
Yet, many people hesitate to file a claim because they have heard stories about how challenging it can be to navigate the workers’ compensation claims process. People often worry that they will go a long time without medical coverage or disability benefits. How long does it usually take to successfully file a workers’ compensation claim in Connecticut?
The timeline depends on the case
The length of time someone needs to devote to a workers’ compensation claim in Connecticut will depend on several factors. Considerations include the nature of someone’s injury and the type of claim they pursue. For example, someone trying to negotiate a lump-sum settlement for a permanently disabling condition that affects a specific body part might require anywhere between 12 and 18 months, on average, to finish the negotiation process and obtain a settlement check.
However, those who need medical coverage and short-term disability benefits often find that the process is much faster. Some coverage is available immediately. When a worker requires medical care related to an on-the-job injury, particularly when they need immediate care, they don’t have to wait for their employer or an insurance company to respond to their claim.
They are eligible for coverage right away. Since they will not yet have a claim number, they will need to provide details to the emergency health care provider about the origin of their injuries and how they intend to file a workers’ compensation claim. That way, internal records at the facility will help someone get appropriate coverage later.
When it comes to disability benefits, a worker usually needs to miss at least four days of work for short-term disability pay to start. They will not receive coverage for disability if they miss less than four days. They may be eligible for benefits covering those first three days of missed work if they are unable to return to work for seven days or longer. If someone needs to file an appeal or negotiate a sizable settlement related to a permanent disability, such claims will usually take longer to navigate than simpler, lower-cost claims.
Although it is possible to file for workers’ compensation unassisted, it is worth noting that seeking legal guidance can better ensure that one’s claim is complete, fully supported and likely to be approved in a timely manner.